MIDDLEBURY — Addison County’s newly formed Skylark Trio (comprised of singer Liz Cleveland, Fred Barnes on the piano and David Gusakov on violin) will present an evening of jazz standards and show tunes from the ’40s, ’50s and beyond at Carol’s Hungry Mind this Saturday, April 20.
The trio will perform from 7 to 9 p.m.. There is a $10 cover charge, and food will be available.
In their exquisite choice of material, this unique threesome pays homage to the classics, but is not afraid to explore less well-known but equally beautiful songs. They ask patrons to be prepared to be moved and delighted by these hidden gems of the genre, always rendered with a sensitive touch.
Fred Barnes was house pianist at the Sheraton Russell hotel in New York City for several years and performed at various supper clubs in the New York area and the Hamptons. He also worked the Atlantic circuit on the Cunard Line, appearing on the QE II and Countess vessels.
David Gusakov brings a wide variety of influences to bear on his unique jazz style. He has appeared with such luminaries as Peter Rowan, Smokey Robinson, John Denver and Jean Redpath, and can be heard with several other area ensembles, including the Will Patton trio, Swing Noire and Michelle Choiniere.
Liz Cleveland, long active locally in musicals and jazz ensembles, is coming into her own as a remarkable singer who is ready for a larger musical stage. Equally at home in ballads and up-tempo tunes, her heartfelt renditions are reminiscent of the jazz greats (think Sarah Vaughn).
Carol’s Hungry Mind is at 24 Merchants Row in Middlebury across from the town green. The phone number is 388-0101.